St. John Passion -
Hanover Band and Chorus
Chichester Cathedral April 10th
The now familiar recitatives, choruses and arias of Bach’s mighty St John Passion have now become an Easter tradition at Chichester Cathedral.
Under the direction of Andrew Arthur, the Hanover Band and Chorus delivered a vibrant and dramatic interpretation of this masterpiece responding superbly to the conductor’s lead. He developed just the right blend of sound between the choir, orchestra and soloists.
Although a small choir the Hanover Chorus singing was incisive and powerful.
Sensitive and commanding performances by the soloists vividly told the emotional and spiritual drama of Christ’s suffering and sacrifice.
The crucial and very demanding role of the Evangelist who tells the story was sung by Simon Wall and could not have been bettered. He excelled in the dialogue scenes with Christ who was superbly interpreted by Rueben Thomas. (Tenor) The two soloists were natural but intensely dramatic.
There are very few soprano opportunities in the work. Angharad Gruffydd Jones was certainly worthy of special praise. The clarity and purity of her voice added greatly to this excellent performance.
Singing the role of Pilate Edward Price brought the right level of power and authority to his interpretation.
In an excellence performance counter tenor Daniel Collins immaculate register of voice enhanced the overall presentation.
The internationally acclaimed Hanover Band‘s accompaniment on period instruments was meticulous and sympathetic giving clear balance throughout.
